Kingston TN
Showing too much gum tissue while smiling, sometimes known as a “gummy smile,” is a cosmetic issue that may make some people feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. Fortunately, using a laser technique, you can get a smile you’ll be proud to show off. Our Kingston, Tennessee, area dentist at LakeView Dental Arts shares on the blog today what can be done about a gummy smile so that you can return to smiling confidently.
What causes excess gum tissue?
Common contributors include heredity and environmental factors. An overbite may lead to discomfort from the constant rubbing of teeth during normal chewing and speaking. Because of the constant rubbing, the gums and soft tissues in your mouth become irritated and swollen. As the swelling subsides, gum recession may set in. Excessive gum tissue may also be caused by a deep bite.
Below are additional conditions that may cause a gummy smile:
- Smoking
- Infection
- Bad breath
- A thin top lip
- Bad dental hygiene
- Undeveloped jawbone
- An overactive upper lip
- Issues with jaw growth
How does excess gum tissue impact my smile?
The appearance of small upper teeth due to excessive gum tissue may diminish the overall aesthetic quality of a person’s smile. Because it might make you seem older than you are or give the impression that your grin is unhealthy, you may feel self-conscious about your gums showing when you smile. It’s also possible that your persistent preoccupation with people’s opinions of your physical appearance may cause significant mental distress.
What’s the relation between excess gum tissue and gum disease?
Gum discoloration of any kind isn’t normal and demands a visit to our Kingston dental office for an exam and treatment options. Gums that change color could be an indication of gum disease, especially if they’re tender and bleed easily. In some instances, patients fail to realize their gums are swollen until they brush or floss their teeth and feel soreness or see blood. Unfortunately, the gum disease signs are an indication of the first stage, known as gingivitis. Fortunately, you can treat and reverse gingivitis during its early stages. But, after the disease progresses into periodontal disease, more significant treatments are necessary, and you increase your risk for jawbone deterioration and tooth loss.
What treatments are available for a gummy smile?
Our aesthetic dentist in Kingston that treats gummy smiles, offers laser gum recontouring to correct your smile and improve your self-esteem.
Laser Gum Recontouring – the standard method for removing extra gum tissue. During this phase of the treatment, the dentist uses a laser to vaporize and remove any extra gums that may be present. The gums will be reshaped by the dentist so that they no longer protrude over the natural gum line once the tissue is removed. During the process, we will utilize a focused beam of light to gently remove gum tissue without harming the bone or supporting structures below the gum line. For your comfort, we will numb your gums before we begin. You’ll be back to business as usual in a day or two after the treatment, although you may find that eating cool, soft foods is ideal the first few days following surgery.
Gummy Smile Treatment in Kingston, Tennessee
Covering your mouth when you speak or smile can become a habit when you have a gummy smile. In many cases, a gummy smile can reduce a person’s self-esteem and make them feel uncomfortable in social situations. Fortunately, through advanced dental techniques, our Kingston dentist at LakeView Dental Arts can correct your gum condition and create a Hollywood-worthy smile. To find out more about gum treatments or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (865) 376-9687 or contact us online to request an appointment.
